Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Angouleme 2017 You Tube video

A peek at 2017 festival...

Saturday, January 14, 2017

Library of Congress Survey on Register of Copyrights (ended Jan 31st) -- UPDATED

THIS SURVEY ENDED ON JAN 31, 2017.
UPDATE 2.18.17

Link to New Yorker article "Sarah Larson -- the Librarian of Congress"
http://www.newyorker.com/culture/sarah-larson/the-librarian-of-congress-and-the-greatness-of-humility?mbid=social_facebook

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Have you filled out your input for this important survey yet???
https://www.research.net/r/RegisterOfCopyrightsNR

Well I have.. and you should too!
If you're an artist.. it's your chance for direct contact with the Federal Government Office that oversees vital laws and protections.
If you're a fan.. it's your chance to champion the rights of indie artists to have their work respected and protected.

The Graphic Artist Guild website has this handy page.. with all the questions on the survey.. and some sample answers to consider.https://graphicartistsguild.org/news/we-need-your-voice-on-the-next-register-of-copyrights

Model responses for Library of Congress Survey on Register of Copyrights 

1. What are the knowledge, skills, and abilities you believe are the most important for the Register of Copyrights? 
The next Register of Copyrights must: • be dedicated to both a robust copyright system and Copyright Office; • recognize the important role that creators of copyrighted works play in promoting our nation’s financial well-being; • have significant experience in, and a strong commitment to, the copyright law •  have a substantial background in representing the interests of creators of copyright works; •  possess a deep appreciation for the special challenges facing individual creators and small businesses in protecting their creative works.; •  a keen understanding of, and a strong commitment to, preserving the longstanding and statutorily-based functions of the Copyright Office, especially its advising the House and Senate Judiciary Committees on domestic and international copyright issues; and •  have the solid support of the copyright community. 

2. What should be the top three priorities for the Register of Copyrights?
Priority #1: Continue the traditional and critical role of the Register as a forceful advocate for both a vibrant copyright system and a strong Copyright Office that works closely with the House and Senate Judiciary Committees in promoting a strong and effective copyright law. 
Priority #2:   A commitment to moving quickly to modernize the Copyright Office with a special focus on updating and making more affordable and simpler the registration and recordation processes. 
Priority #3:  Working with Congress to achieve enactment of legislation creating a small claims process that finally provides individual creators with a viable means of protecting their creative efforts. 

3. Are there other factors that should be considered? As a creative, I believe, to the extent possible, that the views of those whose works are protected by copyright law should be given greater weight in this survey than those who are not. It is also crucial that the views of the leaders of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees, be given great deference in the selection of the next Register. 

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For another example... here are the responses I sent...

1) Knowledge, skills and abilities...

The next Register of Copyrights must have awareness of copyright enforcement in protecting independent (indie) artist rights, and the impact of challenges to those protections in the internet age. The Register must recognize the vital relationship between the lack of enforcement of copyright protections and the financial losses indie artists face when copyrights are infringed on. The Register must have knowledge, skills and ability that include: Experience with copyright law. Devotion to protecting the creators of copyrighted works, whose livelihood and careers are threatened by the unauthorized commercial use by others of their creator-owned images. Courage to preserve the long-standing role of the Copyright Office in defining, enforcing, and protecting intellectual property.


2... The 3 Priorities

#1 working with House and Senate Judiciary Committees to modernize copyright laws and protections -- reflecting the expanding role of artist-owned images in the success of commercial and social media advances via the internet. Too many commercial and social media entities thrive thanks to online images posted by artists, who aren’t even given attribution, must less compensation, for this work. There needs to be a way for images that appear online to be sourced back to artists. Copyright notices placed by artists on their online images must be respected and not removed.

#2  requiring the Copyright Office to maintain an up-to-date, digital, searchable database of all copyrighted materials, AND associated copyright ownership information


#3 Finding a viable means for indie artists and small businesses to receive enforcement for their copyright protections that are currently blatantly infringed upon by retail corporations and online merchants. Many indie artists depend on their own internet storefront (via their website or an online store like Etsy or Society 6). Indie artists rely on online sources like DeviantArt and Facebook to post art images and connect with fans and peers. Having their work counterfeited by others isn’t just unfair – it’s exactly the kind of egregious IP theft that we depend on our strong, powerful Copyright laws to prohibit and punish.

3 .... other Factors to Consider..

An online search of “Art Theft DeviantArt” will reveal scores of horror stories of the personal impact of online art theft. The Copyright Office must find a way to make protecting the Intellectual Property (IP) of indie artists a priority.  The Register of Copyrights MUST be a champion for the indie artist. Enforcing copyright protections for indie artists sets the tone for respecting these rights for all creators. Imagination is a hallmark of American creativity and productivity. Intellectual Property is an expression of the imagination that propels our American Dream. We must protect this… especially for the most vulnerable among us.. the indie artists who define the independent, self-sufficient pioneer spirit we embrace.

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Now it's YOUR turn. Start the New Year out right. Take action. Fight Art Theft.

http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/09/combat-art-theft-case-studies-and.html


Interview with Michel Keck -- the personal price of art theft


Link below is for an article by Gina Tron on Thebillfold.com. This is a heartbreaking look at the amount of work it takes an artist to fight art theft. 

https://thebillfold.com/when-e-commerce-sites-steal-your-art-and-your-profits-981d0d65a197#.b1bju77fw

The link includes a 6 min. You Tube video by the artist. She lays out the time consuming process of trying to get stolen art removed from online site. These sites make profit on her work, while she is losing money fighting theft. You'll see how reprimanded stores re-post stolen art within 24 hours. It's not just the hours that are wearing. It's the emotional cost too....

What is the answer?? Education for fans and artists. 

Here's a quote from the article: "So, what can an art buyer do to make sure that their money goes to artists and not to people who have stolen work from the artists? Keck suggests that art buyers be wary of anything that looks suspicious. She urges consumers to buy directly from the artist themselves. Keck’s work is available on her website. Most artists have their own websites, and if they don’t and the platform looks questionable, Keck suggests to reach out to the artist to check if the sale is legitimate."

This story reinforces the lessons from other examples:

1) Buy directly from the artist or their approved sources.
2) Fans -- Notify artists of suspected art theft
3) Support artists --- don't just "like" them and share images. Pledge on Patreon pages. Buy their work.
4) Artists -- don't be shy about promoting your approved merchant sites... and sources like Patreon. Your WORK shared online is a crucial part of social media. Your WORK deserves credit and compensation.

Lots of small support from a large number of fans has a big impact for indie artists.

More art theft case studies and resources:
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/09/combat-art-theft-case-studies-and.html

Lady and the Lawsuit, technology and copyright -- post on Cartoon Brew

Peggy Lee was a famous singer and songwriter who became part Disney animation history with her contributions to "Lady and the Tramp." She co-wrote songs for the film and voiced four characters: Peg the peke; both Siamese cats; and "Darling," the female half of the couple who owned Lady.

When Disney released "Lady and the Tramp" on VHS in the 1980s, Peggy Lee ended up in a lawsuit with Disney ...

Here's a link to the terrific Sept 2015 article by Brian Gabriel, legal analyst for Cartoon Brew, about the lawsuit and its impact.
http://www.cartoonbrew.com/disney/peggy-lee-war-disney-lady-and-the-tramp-113688.html

An excerpt:

"Lee was vindicated. She proved Disney, and its army of lawyers, could be beaten. “I’m not being a saint, saying I don’t want the money — I want it,’ Lee told the NY Times. “I think it’s shameful that artists can’t share financially from the success of their work. That’s the only way we can make our living.”
For its part, Disney also learned something quite well. Now, its standard contractual language requires that artists surrender rights to their work for exploitation in “all media, now known or hereafter devised.”
This article is a reminder that new technology brings new issues for copyright law. Artists today continue the fight to conserve vital creative in the face of new uses for their creative work.

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Artist Empowerment --- Copyright Survey and Webinar

Copyright Ownership 101 infographic --- by artist Lili Chin. Available as a free download
 http://blog.doggiedrawings.net/post/145814382301

Two important notices this month on Copyright law ...
both from the Graphic Artists Guild.https://graphicartistsguild.org/

NOTICE # 1) .... 
The US Copyright Office is reaching out to creatives for input on filling post of "Register of Copyrights"... this is an actual position, not to be confused with "register copyrights" which is something all creatives should be doing.

Here's a summary from the Advocacy Liaison at the Graphic Artists Guild:

We Need Your Voice on the next Register of Copyrights

Posted by Advocacy Liaison on December 30, 2016

Copyright Office logoThe Graphic Artists Guild needs the help of all visual artists, and all creators and copyright holders.
Here’s the deal: as you probably know, this October, the Librarian of Congress removed Maria Pallante, the Register of Copyrights, from her position. This move was unprecedented, and is a blow to the creative community. Throughout her tenure as Register of Copyrights, Pallante demonstrated her willingness to listen to the concerns of creatives, and her interest in revisiting copyright law and modernizing the Copyright Office so that it can better serve rights holders and users.
Now the Librarian of Congress has taken a second unprecedented move. Instead of conferring with members of Congress and stakeholders, she’s decided to post a Survey Monkey poll, asking the general public to weigh in on the “knowledge, skills, and abilities” the new Register should possess, and what the top three priorities should be.
- See more at: https://graphicartistsguild.org/news/we-need-your-voice-on-the-next-register-of-copyrights#sthash.qL3njcxK.dpuf


That's right --- the US Copyright Office is counting on public feedback via a Survey Monkey Poll to help determine the "knowledge, skills and abilities" the new Register should possess.

Seriously???  A Survey Monkey Poll???

At least they are listening.

All creatives should take this opportunity to fill out the survey and communicate to the US Copyright office that Copyright protections are vital to indie artists and need stronger enforcement in the internet age. The survey is only two pages long, but you can attach additional comments. Artists -- share your personal stories of art theft! These stories have impact. So many artists have suffered financial loss due to unauthorized commercial use of their online art.

Here's a link for the survey:  https://www.research.net/r/RegisterOfCopyrightsNR

From the Graphic Artists Guild page:

Please share this message with your fellow creatives on social media, on your blogs, via email, etc. The Library is soliciting responses until January 31st. Let’s make sure our voice isn’t drowned out! #mycopyrightmatters #yourcopyrightmatters - See more at: https://graphicartistsguild.org/news/we-need-your-voice-on-the-next-register-of-copyrights#sthash.qL3njcxK.dpuf

Read the entire page on the Graphic Aritsts Guild website for links and more details.
https://graphicartistsguild.org/news/we-need-your-voice-on-the-next-register-of-copyrights

NOTICE #2)....
Graphic Artists Guild is hosting this "Copyright and Comics" Webinar on Wednesday January 18th
https://graphicartistsguild.org/webinars/copyrights-comix

Copyrights & Comics

Presented by Mark Monlux & Daniel Abraham

Learn about Contracts, Copyrights and the basics of Fair Use for comics from  Artist, Mark Monlux and Attorney, Daniel Abraham of

January 18, 2017
2 PM ET, 1 PM CT, 12 PM MT, 11 AM PT
1 hour + Q&A




About the Presenters

Mark Monlux, Illustrator
Mark Monlux is an award winning illustrator and cartoonist. Freelancing since 1985, the bulk of his work has been in the adverting and publishing world, his work in recent years has turned to various aspects of Graphic Facilitation; Ideation Illustration, Cartoon Reporter, Sketchnoter, and Whiteboard Animation. He has a national reputation for his knowledge on copyright law, contracts, good trade practice, and business ethics. He cofounded The C.L.A.W. The Cartoonists’ League of Absurd Washingtonians, served on the Guild’s National & Executive Committees of the Graphic Artist Guild for several years. He is also a member of the National Cartoonists Society and Cartoonists Northwest. He is currently producing a series of “Law & Artist” videos with Daniel Abraham.
Daniel Abraham, Attorney at Law
A former professional illustrator, Daniel Abraham has served the creative community as a copyright attorney for 25 years. As the Graphic Artists Guild's Vice President for National Affairs, he successfully advocated to change US and California tax laws to benefit artists, and has submitted testimony to Congress, the Copyright Office, and two state legislatures. Abraham has taught copyrights and contracts at Parsons School of Design, and teaches now at FIT. He has lectured on legal issues for creative professionals at schools and conferences nationwide.  Currently, he and illustrator Mark Monlux appear in the “Law & Artist” blog series, discussing legal issues in the arts.
About the Webinar
This webinar will cover the basics of copyrights that cartoonists and graphic novelists need to know: copyright basics, where to register, why to register. 
Attendees will walk away with a basic understanding of:
1) Types of contracts and contract terms cartoonists will encounter (such as “work-for-hire”)
2) Copyright issues with collaborative work (who owns what)
3) And the basics of fair use and fan art.
- See more at: https://graphicartistsguild.org/webinars/copyrights-comix#sthash.7VvddJG9.dpuf


Sign up for this webinar..... the $45 fee is an investment in protecting your rights. Hear from experts and other artists impacting by copyright issues.

Webinar will be appx. 1 hour long:

More posts here on the blog ...on indie artists and copyright:

Combat Art Theft
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/09/combat-art-theft-case-studies-and.html

Copyright Info for Artists
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/07/copyright-info-for-artists_15.html

Free Infographics (from artist Lili Chin) on Copyright Basics
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/06/copyright-101-infographic-by-lili-chin.html

More resources....

Interview on Fanbase Press
http://www.fanbasepress.com/index.php/press/featured-series/item/7042-geekscare-an-interview-with-amy-wagner-about-art-theft-and-how-indie-creators-can-protect-themselves

"Intro to Copyright" from Tools and Resource page of Graphic Artists Guild website.
https://graphicartistsguild.org/tools_resources/an-introduction-to-copyright-law


Sunday, January 1, 2017

Freedom from "Free Art" -- Calculate Your Rate

Let 2017 be the year artists stop working for free. (graphic below by Michelle Leivan on cafe press)
http://www.cafepress.com/leivan/8172417

It will take effort.. but it has to start somewhere. Let's start with credit.

Social Media thrives on the sharing of images. Most of those images are provided by artists. Artist-owned images get copied from one source and shared on another. But where is the attribution??? Why is it so hard to find the source of some of the most beloved viral images??

It's the result of the internet culture moving ahead of the old school 2D paradigm. Before the internet.. if you liked an image.. it was usually in a fixed form of a published work: a book or magazine, on a card or print or poster. All of those fixed forms of the expression of the creative work had attribution -- the credit for the artist or photographer in the margin --- a copyright notice with publication.

Establishing credit for images will require work from artists and fans.

For Artists -- it means embracing branding. Put your name loud and proud on your images. The internet isn't a canvas or a sketchbook. The internet is designed to erase credit. Artists need to take the steps that prevent that. Here are two:

1) register copyrights for all your images. You get the most protection when you register PRIOR to publication. There's some debate whether "publication" is in a fixed form, or the first appearance of an image on the internet. Get in the habit of registering  your copyrights in bundles, for a set time period (quarterly works for most artists), and within 3 mos. of the first time the images are made public. Better safe than sorry. Registering your copyrights for your work, within 3 mos of first publication, gives the most protection under current copyright laws. (PS -- the time and money you spend on copyright registration should be factored into your rate).

2) put a copyright notice [ (c) Your Name, date ] on all your images. You are the creator of this work. Fight anonymous art.

3) Know Your Day Rate -- Most artists today are independent. Help your art help you. Don't underestimate all the levels of work it takes you to produce art. Know your numbers -- the expenses you incur, as well as your time.

Don't work for free. Negotiate a rate -- even when it's reduced or a gift done for charity causes -- based on both you and the client knowing your day rate. When you work for free.. or for cheap.. you undermine the sustainability of art as a career.

Free art is an affront to everyone who values the work it takes to make art.

Here's a fantastic infographic designed by Rachel Frankel on running the numbers in this 12.16 blog post "Infographic: How To Calculate Your Hourly Rate" by Ryan Robinson on Creativelive.com's blog:
http://blog.creativelive.com/how-to-calculate-freelance-hourly-rate-infographic/?via=blog-posts_11
Also this clip from indie artist/craftsman Dave on his You Tube channel "Make Something"

For Fans -- protect what you "like" online. Support it when and how you can.

1) Buy directly from creators. Shop at their online stores. If their art provides value for you, show your appreciation by buying directly from them.
2) support via sites like Patreon. If you enjoy frequent posts by an artist, and would buy them lunch or a coffee in person if you had the opportunity -- pledge or donate that amount. Small donations add up.
3) Be aware -- many artists LOSE sales to counterfeiters. Go to the source.

More on the problems of Art Theft and Counterfeit art in this frequently updated post:
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/09/combat-art-theft-case-studies-and.html

Your Guide to Behind the Scenes at Stuart Ng Books (1.1.17)

Start here to learn how to use this blog..... You are about to explore SNB adventures from my (Amy's) perspective ... Stuart's website links to this blog, but Stuart does NOT write these posts.

For the latest news on Stuart Ng Books, you can follow SNB on Facebook or Twitter. To receive Stuart's email newsletter (with lots of exclusive offers) use this link from the SNB website: http://stuartngbooks.com/join-our-mailing-list.html
For info on ordering books, and a website chock full of our extensive inventory, start at the homepage for  SNB: http://stuartngbooks.com/

Welcome to the realm of Bride of Bookseller. The posts are all written by me. This blog exists to educate and entertain by sharing resources that can benefit artists.

It takes talent and commitment to thrive as an indie artist. But it also takes balance and fitness. No one talks to artists about this truth: You have to be well enough.. physically.. mentally..emotionally...financially... to get your work done. At the same time, so many artists struggle with chronic conditions that impact their productivity. No wonder artists are stressed. Many posts on the blog here offer possible solutions.... and celebrate the traits all the best artists share: (button below from Alaska Robotics http://alaskarobotics.com/)
Scroll down this "Your Guide" post  and you'll discover background on the blog (SNB and BTS backstory)....
Then these three categories of highlighted posts:

1) POSTS THAT GET UPDATED --- Yoga for Artists; Art and Anxiety - Dance Steps and Resources; Copyright Info for Artists; Combat Art Theft; Podcast Recommendations

2) POSTS OF NOTE -- Angouleme and France; Maleficent; Martin "Marty" Mouse; Indie Art Fairs; Google Doodle Mystery Artists Revealed; Cecil the Lion; Comic Con; Claire Wendling in California; Science Themed Posts; Activities and Attractions near the SNB Store; Horse of Course; Posts from the Most Active Year

3) a)Other Popular Topics; b) Humorous and Historical Posts
______________________________________

SNB and BTS BACKSTORY


For the origin of the SNB logo, see this post: http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/07/snb-logo-origin-story.html

Stuart Ng Books is very small business in Torrance, CA. Our niche is books on illustration, animation and comic art. Our wonderful, loyal patrons are artists, students and collectors in these fields.
We started in the genteel era of old school hands-on bookselling, and we've weathered the transition to the Online arena. Our bookstore is mostly mail order.  In addition to our website, we sell books at conventions and book fairs.
I say "our" because SNB started as a 2-person operation. We had a book room in the house for inventory. The dining room table was the packing station for mail orders. I was the voice on the phone, processed orders, and schlepped boxes to the post office. But it's called Stuart Ng Books for a reason. Once the books started earning their way and moved out of house and into their own office space, I'm was ready to segue into BTS (behind-the-scenes) mode.
Stuart is a man on a mission. He is always on the job: in constant search for great books and artists. He is known for discovering treasures during his annual trip to France to attend the festival in Angouleme, Europe's largest comic art convention. He doesn't speak or read French; he selects his inventory strictly for the art. He's the visual one. I'm more verbal. I took some French lessons... so now I can try to talk with people there (and order more than a ham and cheese sandwich at the cafes).
When Stuart launched the business full-time in 1997, we had no idea we would become a world-wide resource for books in our field. When I married Stuart... a LONG time ago.. I had no idea I would also be marrying a small business (we didn't meet in business school.... but that's another story). We have exhibited at San Diego Comic Con for 18 years. Where we find ourselves now, all these years later, is a creative and engaging place to be.
Our patrons seek out Stuart at conventions and online. They buy books from him because his "eye" and expertise are a bonus they value. Part of the fun of Stuart Ng Books is how we get to facilitate connections and inspiration. We get to see the artistic process in action. We steward the passing of cherished books from the reference libraries of artists who are masters in their field into the hands and creative spirit of a next generation. I try to remind us of all this on the days when our "What is the Matrix" question haunts us: Can a little book business survive in the internet age? Stay tuned ....
I started my blog in 2008 as a way to share topics I discussed with friends and patrons who visited us at conventions. I also use the blog to share trips to exhibits and shows we attend that artists might find inspiring.
Reoccurring themes on the blog archive include "Get Inspired"... "Your Science Lesson"... "Your Business Lesson," "Con," "POV shot," "Horse Show," "Book Fair"...
See "FAQ," "Stewardship" and "Legacy Books" for posts about bringing YOU the benefits of a devoted rare bookseller in world where mom and pop bookstores are themselves becoming endangered!
HELLO WORLD -- 120 and counting
For a complete list of the 120 countries that have visited the blog, check out this Aug 11, 2011 post: "Hello World.."  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/08/hello-world-please-leave-comment.html And one final stat -- as of Oct 2016, the blog has tallied over 200,000 all-time page views.

1)  POSTS THAT GET UPDATED  
 YOGA FOR ARTISTS
In 2015 I launched a series of posts to share stretches and restorative options for Artists and others whose work demands long hours of sitting. These simple exercises will help undo the strain on back, shoulders, arms, wrists and hands. Posts feature stills and video with certified yoga instructor Simone, who gives helpful workshops at the SNB showroom for crew and colleagues. Simone's Facebook page also offers links to online tutorials she finds and recommends: https://www.facebook.com/simonemarket
Here are links for "Yoga for Artists" lessons on the blog:
Introduction -- Art requires Flexibility http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/04/yoga-for-artists-introduction-art.html
Lesson #1 Releases for Shoulders and Upper Back http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/04/yoga-for-artists-lesson-1-releases-for.html
Lesson #2 - Upper Body Stretches using Chair, Wall and Blocks http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/06/yoga-lesson-2-upper-body-stretches.html

ART AND ANXIETY -- DANCE STEPS AND RESOURCES
I've also started posting links for resources regarding Art and Anxiety (updated 9.17.16... includes tips on how to communicate the value of your work!...http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/07/get-inspired-art-and-anxiety-dance-steps.html

Terrific Tumbler post by (gal artist .. just saying :)  C.Spike Trotman has this gem below and other panels explaining steps to success for indie artist life ....http://spikedrewthis.tumblr.com/post/64136324548/this-is-everything-i-know-a-24-hour-comic-about

More "art has value" on this post on how to turn a charity request into a paying job ... http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/07/your-business-lesson-turn-charity.html

Lots here on the blog for artist health -- physical, emotional, financial....
Graphic above by Patternson Clark...

"PSA on Killer Chairs" post on dangers of too much chair time for anyone with a desk job .. and tips to help fight the effects of damage to posture and hand and wrists
...http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/11/posts-in-progress-and-psa.html

COPYRIGHT INFO FOR ARTISTS



This is a post from July 2014 that I frequently update with new links and case studies of Copyright Protection for images posted online! UPDATED 9.17.16. Lots of resources listed here -- and case studies on unauthorized commerical use of artist owned images for profit by others:
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/07/copyright-info-for-artists_15.html
Also see blog post from June 11, 2016 with FREE infographics by Lili Chin on copyright 101
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/06/copyright-101-infographic-by-lili-chin.html
Lili's infographics are available as free downloads on  her link:
 http://www.doggiedrawings.net/copyright-101

Lili Chin is also the successful, established indie artist who had to file a lawsuit against Kohls when the retail giant stole her artwork.

This Oct 2016 post has background info and updates on this potentially groundbreaking legal case in the fight against art theft: http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/10/indie-artist-lili-chin-files-lawsuit.html

Important info on blog post  "Fan Art -- Playground or Minefield." Includes link to video clip of panel on IP. This post on the grey areas of Fan Art is also updated.
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/04/fan-art-playground-or-minefield.html


COMBAT ART THEFT --
case studies and taking action


New for 2016 .. this post compiles case studies and how artists are fighting back. There is a dangerous culture of tolerated piracy when it comes to online art. This. Must. Stop. Links on this post explain the risks.. and offer solutions.http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/09/combat-art-theft-case-studies-and.html

PODCAST RECOMMENDATIONS
In 2015, I started listening to more podcasts. There are many great ones out there. If you "don't have time" for podcasts... or fitness... try planning a time to get up from your chair for a 10 or 15 min walk once a day, and listen to a podcast while your moving around. See if it becomes a happy habit with benefits! Some podcast segments are under 15 mins. Many are about an hour. Listening to a podcast adds a learning opportunity to many activities. Here's a post where I gathered a list of podcasts recommendations, including these 3 top picks.


2) POSTS OF NOTE

ANGOULEME AND FRANCE
Each year, Stuart recharges with travel to France to attend the largest Comics festival in Europe. It's held in the city of Angouleme, about 2 hours from Paris. During this trip, we get to reconnect with artist pals and colleagues.. and I often get to document my side trips to museums and other art reference adventures. You can find these France related posts in the February posts of most years on the blog. Here's link for most recent: http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/02/paris-2016-post-in-progress.html

MALEFICENT
Current favorite posts include the 4 posts I wrote in June 2014 for film "Maleficent" .. with 2 detailed posts on the QandA with director Robert Stromberg and Production Designer Dylan Cole that I attended at Gnomon school.

Here are links for the four June posts on Maleficent --
 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/06/making-of-maleficent-event-held-at.html
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/06/making-of-maleficent-talk-with-robert.html
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/06/he-art-of-maleficent-sleeping-beautys.html
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/06/many-messages-of-maleficent-updated-6814.html
More Maleficent posts in Sept and Oct for the "Once Upon A Dream" book signing including this re-cap of the event http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/10/once-upon-dream-maleficent-dream-event.html

(LtoR, Dylan Cole, Robert Stromberg, Charles Solomon, Don Hahn at Center Stage Gallery for book signing co-hosted by Stuart Ng Books)

March 3, 2015 post on "Art of Motion Picture Costume Design" exhibit at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising Museum.  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/03/maleficent-birdman-etc-at-fashion.html
Here's link to LA Times story about the exhibit... http://www.latimes.com/fashion/la-ig-fidm-exhibit-20150222-story.html
The featured costume for this exhibit was the Maleficent gown from the christening scene.

Internet phenom Marty is the star from Martin "Marty" Mouse facebook page https://www.facebook.com/martymousetherat by Photographer Sarah Hunt http://sarahhuntphotography.com/. Her glorious photos of Marty have been featured on Buzzfeed, Cute Overload, etc and bring the charm and comic fun of wee ones to a world-wide audience of over 25,000 + fans.
I'm delighted to escort Marty (in squeeze Marty pillow form -- art designed by Steph Laberis https://www.facebook.com/stephlaberisart  ) at conventions and on other adventures, documented here on the blog, with links to featured artists and other finds.
Here are the Marty posts
WONDERCON 2015
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/04/wondercon-2015-tour-con-with-marty-mouse.html
PARIS AND ANGOULEME 2015
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/02/france-2015-preview-of-posts-in-progress.html
COMIC CON 2014
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/08/comic-con-2014-fun-of-camaraderie.html
CTNX 2014
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/11/behind-scenes-with-martin-marty-mouse.html

Plush art tour pals for 2016
Huggable Koi #10 in France
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/02/huggable-koi-in-france-2016-angouleme.html

Plush Art Pals Tour WonderCon
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/03/wondercon-2016-tour-with-plush-pals.html

How does art plush happen??? Check out this Kickstarter that surpassed its funding goals and launched its artist/creator to a whole new level  ... 

INDEPENDENT ARTIST FAIRS AND SHOWS
Your local art fair is a great place to find artists in your own neighborhood. Here in SoCal we have a number of these. I especially enjoy the Patchwork Art Fairs, organized by DearHandmade Life http://dearhandmadelife.com/patchwork-show/.

GOOGLE DOODLE MYSTERY ARTISTS - REVEALED!!!
May 2014 post, also frequently updated, reveals the "mystery artists" behind Google Doodles. This post also includes background info on some of my favorite Google Doodles over the years. March 2016 update has info on annual Google Doodle contest for students K-12th grade.
  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/05/google-doodle-mystery-artist-with-links.html


CECIL THE LION

Image above by Manny Carrasco...
The tragic circumstances with Cecil the lion in 2015 provoked an outpouring of tribute art. I collected some images on this blog post.. as well as articles about conservation efforts.
 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/08/cecil-lion-art-stories-lessons-and.html

6 POSTS ON BLOG FOR COMIC CON 2016


Six posts .. highlighting SNB booth.. Indie Artist Exhibitors....Pavilions, Toys and the Price of Popularity.. link for podcast on Exhibitor Tips for Artists.... Revisit the show starting with  #1 of 6 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/07/comic-con-2016-snb-booth.html

COMIC CON 2015
Comic Con 2015 Seven Posts in all on topics from SNB Booth to Cosplay .. to Marty Mouse Tour..to SDCC survival guide.. plus lots of links for commentary and photo albums. Start here for topic titles and links: http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/07/comic-con-2015-seven-posts-hundreds-of.html

CLAIRE WENDLING 2015 VISIT TO CALIFORNIA
The Stuart Ng Books - Claire Wendling connection dates back to 2005. That year, Claire was the featured artist at the annual  Angouleme Festival of Bande Dessinee, the largest comics festival in Europe.
Prior to the 2005 festival, Stuart had discovered Wendling's work via her sketchbook of personal drawings "Desk" (first published in France; current edition published by Stuart Ng Books)....
 http://stuartngbooks.com/wendling-desk.html

....and her award-winning art for the Bande Dessinee (or BD) series "Les Lumieres des Amalou" (written by Christophe Gibelin).
http://stuartngbooks.com/les-lumieres-de-lamalou-edition-integrale.html

Inspired to attend the 2005 festival for the chance to see a career retrospective of her work, and perhaps meet the artist, Stuart embarked on his first-ever trip to France. In fact, it was the first time he had ever traveled outside of the US. Stuart does not speak or read French. Fortunately for all of us, Claire and her charming husband and colleague Christian speak fluent  English.
Even from those first meetings in the city cafes, Claire and Stuart spoke a common language of appreciation: for Claire's unique skills; and for Stuart's ability to bring her visionary talent to an ever-expanding US and worldwide community of peers and fans.
In the years that followed, Stuart's annual trips to Angouleme for the festival also included a visit with Claire and Christian... bringing them news and appreciation from her US fans ... and always talk of a hopeful visit by them to the US.
In 2015, on the 10th anniversary of the Claire Wendling-Stuart Ng connection, Claire was able to accept two long-offered invitations that Stuart had conveyed to her from mutual friends. Claire appeared as a special guest at the  Big Wow comics convention in early April. She accepted an honorary doctorate and speaking engagements at the Academy of Art Universtiy in San Francisco in April and May. Photo below shows Claire and Stuart at Claire's table at Big Wow.
Here on the blog are a series of 6 posts with photos and behind the scenes highlights from this long-awaited return of Claire Wendling to her beloved California ... where she worked for Warner Bros Feature Animation in the 1990s.
Claire Wendling at Big Wow Convention (background post)
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/04/claire-wendling-at-big-wow-convention.html
Claire Wendling -- Highlights from Big Wow and speaking engagement at Academy of Art University
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/04/post-in-progress-claire-wendling.html
"animal" art show at Gnomon School (Claire attended and met with several of the artists)
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/05/animal-benefit-art-exhibition-at-gnomon.html
Paul Choy photos from Claire Wendling signing at SNB
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/05/paul-choy-photos-from-claire-wendling.html
Behind the Scenes at Wendling signing and CA visit
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/05/behind-scenes-at-wendling-visit-to-snb.html
Claire Wendling sketching at Big Wow, link to video by John Fleskes
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/05/claire-wendling-sketching-video-from.html

CLAIRE WENDING IN CA - 2016
Wendling was a featured guest at the 2016 CTNX Animation Expo. Here's link for an interview with her on the CTN website: http://tv.creativetalentnetwork.com/a-conversation-with-claire-wendling


3 posts on CTNX 2016 -- including this one w/info on Wendling book that debuted:

SCIENCE THEMED POSTS

YOUR SCIENCE LESSON.. (Aug 27, 2009) video clip from Musee Curie
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2009/08/your-science-lesson-for-today-musee.html

YOUR SCIENCE LESSON... INTL YEAR OF CHEMISTRY (Nov 7, 2011)  AND DEBUT OF MARIE CURIE PLAY AT GEFFEN IN LOS ANGELES  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/11/your-science-lesson-for-today-2011.html

(another fun SCIENCE LESSON post -- CHEMICAL HERITAGE FOUNDATION LIBRARY (in PA) and MUSEE CURIE (in Paris) post from Aug 21, 2009)  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2009/08/elements-are-everywhere-your-science.html


ACTIVITIES and ATTRACTIONS NEAR OUR STORE

If you want to visit the SNB showroom -- and your family or S.O. (significant other) wants something to do besides look at books -- here are some links to local attractions:

From SEPT POST 9/5/11: Two "Family Fun" posts about Wilson  Park. See pics of the ballparks, tree house, and more ... also a paved walking trail that's mostly shaded and about a mile long. (As of 10/15, duck pond in pic below fenced and drained due to drought). Still there are lots of amenities.. and if you bring a bag of unsalted peanuts.. chances are you'll make friends with some squirrels!
 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/09/family-fun-wilson-park.html

Here's link to Yelp review of the park. http://www.yelp.com/biz/wilson-park-torrance
The duck pond pictured above is closed now. It's being renovated into a splash pad water playground.. expected to open May 2017 http://www.dailybreeze.com/lifestyle/20160817/cool-your-jets-splash-pad-coming-to-torrances-wilson-park

There are activities for all ages in and around Torrance... so if you want to browse our showroom for awhile and your family doesn't... you can all come to Torrance and do different things! We are minutes away from shops and AMC movies at Del Amo Fashion Mall http://www.simon.com/mall/del-amo-fashion-center  A miles north will get you to the South Coast Botanic Garden  http://southcoastbotanicgarden.org/ ..... and we're also close to the Lomita Train Museum http://www.lomita-rr.org/

On Saturdays, Wilson Park is home to the Torrance Farmer's Market -- great produce and food booths. http://www.yelp.com/biz/torrance-city-farmers-market-torrance. Wilson Park is also home to the Southern California Live Steamers Minature Railroad http://www.southerncalifornialivesteamers.com/  Ride the trains at the Park every 3rd Saturday!  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/09/family-fun-wilson-park-train-rides.html


Even more culture just minutes from our showroom -- The International Printing Museum. This tiny gem hosts an annual printers fair (http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/10/printing-museum-printers-fair-today-sat.html) -- as well as a Dickens festival (post nov 29, 2010 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2010/11/morning-brew-nov-29-family-fun-at.html ) a Ben Franklin b'day celebration (post Jan 6, 2012  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2012/01/b-is-for-ben-franklin-and-family-fun.html), and a founding fathers independence day event in July. Check their website for calendar of upcoming presentations:  http://www.printmuseum.org/



HORSE OF COURSE

Why is Stuart Ng Books located in Torrance? One reasons is the proximity to HORSES!!


No, I don't have a horse -- but just a few miles from us is the rural enclave of  Palos Verdes (PV)  -- a thriving equestrian community -- with miles of trails -- lots of riding stables -- all located right on the coast with ideal weather. If you want to sketch horses and equestrian life in a mild, shaded climate there are a number of public parks in PV with rings that riders use to train their horses as well as the various public and private stables in the area. Here are links for two of the public parks:
Ernie Howlett Park (site for annual charity horse show)
http://www.yelp.com/biz/ernie-howlett-park-rolling-hills-estates
Dapplegray Park, Rolling Hills Estates
http://www.ci.rolling-hills-estates.ca.us/index.aspx?page=116

Every September, a nationally ranked charity horse show, The Portuguese Bend National Horse Show, is held in PV.

Five posts on 2015 horse show... including this one featuring background on artist Terryl Whitlatch (her new book highlighted in the horse show program) http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/09/terryl-whitlatch-horse-art-and-creature.html

This horse show is a family friendly event with TONS of amenities. -- and an outstanding sketching opportunity for artists. There is a large, shaded, grassy knoll where you can sit for hours and sketch. You can also get quite close to the horses and riders if you want. While many equestrian events in PV are FREE to attend, there is a nominal admission charge for the charity horse show on Sat  & Sun -- because all proceeds for this event are a fundraiser. Admission to the charity show is free on Fridays. The show runs fri - sun on the 1st weekend in Sept.
"HORSE SHOW 2011 - PREVIEWS AND PICS FROM PREVIOUS SHOWS" post from 9-6-11 has some of my favorite action shots of horses and gives you a flavor of this very special event.
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/09/1-day-until-horse-show-sept-9-11.html

The show has been held for almost 60 years by the non-profit PCCH (Peninsula Committee Children's Hospital), an organization that raises money for Children's Hospital Los Angeles. More on PCCH here: http://www.pcch.net/



For more info on the annual Portuguese Bend National Horse Show -- including date for this year's show and schedule of activities, check out this link to show webpage:
http://www.pcch.net/index.php/horseshow/

EQUINE ARTISTS POSTS
One of the most popular posts on the blog concerns artist Norman Thelwell.
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/09/get-inspired-norman-thelwell-special_5.html


other Equine artists I've highlighted
George Ford Morris   http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/12/gift-of-inspiration-george-ford-morris.html
CW Anderson   http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/12/gift-of-inspiration-cw-anderson.html
Post on Horse reference and scale models (including Breyer horses)
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2008/08/more-horse-reference-scale-models-up-to.html
Jo Taylor and Lucy Kemp-Welch
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/12/gift-of-inspiration-equine-artists-jo.html

POSTS ON SPECIFIC HORSES:
SECRETARIAT(Sept 2010)  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2010/09/morning-brew-sept-28-big-red-arrives.html


 and THE BLACK STALLION (Oct 2010) http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2010/10/secretariat-black-stallion-winner-is.html


POSTS FROM MOST ACTIVE YEAR
2011 was the most active year on the blog. Here are links for some of the most frequently visited posts:

NOVEMBER 2011 POSTS:
9 POSTS on CTNX
(includes posts on REGIS LOISEL http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/11/ctnx-2011-regis-loisel.html


TERRYL WHITLATCH (This post updated 6/14; added you tube interview with her from Academy of Art University)  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/11/ctnx-2011-terryl-whitlatch.html

and SKETCHTRAVEL book US DEBUT and SIGNING)  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/11/ctnx-2011-sketchtravel-debut-signing.html

ANIMAL ANTICS.... SNB publication of Pres Romanillos sketchbook previewed here on the blog.  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/11/ctnx-2011-pres-romanilllos-sketchbook.html

A set of three  "FAMILY FUN" POSTS ON ANNUAL MODEL TRAIN SHOW (oct 30th 2011) http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/10/train-show-2011-live-wire-train-town.html




Three  POSTS ON "MARY BLAIR PANEL" AT ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS SCIENCES http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/10/mary-blair-panel-updated-post-coming.html




3a)  OTHER POPULAR TOPICS
ART OF ANIMALS (Aug 2010) exhibit at Forest Lawn in Glendale with links to more images from amazing artwork at this show! http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2010/08/get-inspiried-menagerie-art-of-animals.html

"DREAM CON"

Dream Con is an annual Book Fair for and by the DreamWorks Animation artists. They get to showcase some of their personal projects -- self-published sketchbooks, photography, original art etc. It's held on the DreamWorks animation campus and SNB is the only outside vendor. We are lucky to be invited there every year, as they kindly consider our booth a "perk" they are providing their artists. Always a great day with fun folks at a beautiful setting. Here are links for the years I've posted about:
2016 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2016/10/dreamcon-2016.html
2015 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/10/dreamcon-2015.html
2011  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/10/snb-at-dream-con-oct-2011.html

Posts on animal sculpts -- "BRONZE ANIMALS BY ERIC BERG"  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/10/bronze-animals-by-eric-berg-new-post.html ... and "BRONZE ANIMALS, LAZY DAISY CAFE OSCAR'S HOME IN BEVERLY HILLS" http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/10/bronze-animals-in-beverly-hills-front.html

TWO "GET INSPIRED" POSTS WITH FREQUENT HITS:
"GET INSPIRED - Printers Fair 2014"
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2014/10/los-angeles-printers-fair-2014.html
also 2015 post
http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2015/10/la-printers-fair-2015.html


"GET INSPIRED - TIM BURTON MoMA SHOW AT LACMA"  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/09/get-inspired-tim-burton-moma-show-at.html

LA COUNTY MUSEUM OF NAT'L HISTORY
Want to sketch bones??? Check out these three posts on the LA County Museum of Natural History and the Sept 2011 opening of the new Dino Hall:
 http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2011/09/get-inspiredfamily-fun-natl-history_06.html  Link for LA County Museum of Natural History http://www.nhm.org/site/

3b) HUMOROUS AND HISTORICAL POSTS
SNB experiments (like our booth at a Twilight convention Oct 2010. http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2010/10/hillywood-show-with-wendling-desk.html  ); Scenes from our bookscouting trips (Aug 2009 is a good one  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2009/08/planes-trains-and-bookstores-back-east.html ); Even a post on the time someone shipped us a book in a used pizza box (Aug 2008 post  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/2008/08/place-holder-1.html)  . For posts written back when I was "the voice" on the phone at SNB and at the order desk full-time, search "Daily Brew" (2008 - 2010). All this and more lurks here on the blog for you to discover..

Some blog posts highlight the directions that SNB takes me (but not necessarily Stuart)... search the archive posts to find Hoops and Yoyo  http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/search?q=hoops+%26+yoyo; Twilight http://stuartngbooks.blogspot.com/search?q=twilight;
Ready for a dance break? Enjoy this music video of band Ok Go w/ agility dogs! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHlJODYBLKs
Here's the link for the MSBNC show that featured Stuart:http://www.openforum.com/idea-hub/topics/innovation/video/american-business-super-nicheSee AUGUST 2010 posts additional pics and info on SNB on MSNBC...

FYI notices: 1) Stuart's last name, "Ng", is pronounced like the suffix "ing" in "drawing" or "Wendling." 2) you can email comments or questions directly to me at seahorse310(at)gmail.com. Aloha and thanks for visiting.